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The word 'ivory' rang in the air, was whispered, was…

“The word 'ivory' rang in the air, was whispered, was sighed. You would think they were praying to it. A taint of imbecile rapacity blew through it all, like a whiff from some corpse.” quote by Joseph Conrad
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““The word 'ivory' rang in the air, was whispered, was sighed. You would think they were praying to it. A taint of imbecile rapacity blew through it all, like a whiff from some corpse.””

Joseph Conrad

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The quote portrays a reverent yet grotesque atmosphere, suggesting that something precious is both worshipped and corrupted by greed and stupidity.

In simple terms: Worship of something beautiful is tainted by greed.

Key Takeaway

Beware how reverence can mask exploitation.

Themes

worship corruption greed beauty

Mood

somber critical

Type

literary reflective

When to use this quote

  • political speeches
  • art criticism
  • ethical debates

Key Concepts

human nature symbolism decay

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does reverence turn into exploitation?
  • What does the 'ivory' symbolize?
A Different Perspective

The metaphor may over‑dramaticize; some may see it as melodramatic.

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